BPCA Peace Rally in London

Wilson Chowdhry with Baroness Cox - addressing gathered protesters

-

On the 19th December 2009 over 120 people form all faiths including, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, Atheists and Christians marched for equality, justice and peace in Pakistan. The event was organised by the British Pakistani Christian Association in the wake of Taliban led attacks on Christian communities in Pakistan. The event also had the honour of being attended by Green Party MEP Jean Lambert and Baroness Cox.

Wilson Chowdhry is the Vice Chairman of the BPCA and is pleased to announce that since the Peace rally took place - the High Commissioner of Pakistan has agreed to meet an all faith/no faith delegation on the 8th January 2010, to discuss the persecution felt by minority faith groups in Pakistan Inter Alia; Ahmadi Muslims, Shi'ite Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Sikhs. Wilson said:

"We hope to arrange a meeting with the Interior Minister of Pakistan as a sequel to our initial delegation, he is soon due to visit the UK. The BPCA believe these actions will be early steps towards a free Pakistan, with an end to the existing second class citizenship felt by many. This is the biggest Christmas present we could give to the persecuted minorities in Pakistan, and is a stepping stone, to a more stable economic and social environment in Pakistan."

Many people in the UK have questioned why the BPCA is asking the British Government to get involved with what outwardly seems to be an international issue outside of their remit. Wilson responded:

"The British Government are allies with Pakistan and have regular and more convivial dialogue with the Country, than most nations. The war on terror that has been instigated by the British Government in union with the USA has caused an increase in the intensity and frequency of the attacks on Christian communities in Pakistan. In the last 4 months 3 cities have been burned to the ground in violent mob attacks that have left the poor Christian communities destitute and they are still being threatened by the perpetrators. Our government is providing resources and funding to the Pakistan government to support the war on terror, yet the popularity of the Taliban seem to have increased. If we are to win this war on terror and reduce our overall fiscal costs and resource outlay, surely it would be wiser to channel some of these funds into increasing the level of literacy in Pakistan. The Taliban brainwash the illiterate masses in Pakistan, and recruit from the Poverty stricken areas."

The BPCA believe that while there are people that need others to make their decisions for them, due to a lack of discernment - the Taliban will always be a popular outfit. Their group wishes to challenge the American Government and the British Government into provoking internal change in Pakistan. Equal rights should not be a preserve of the social elite and parity of opportunity is a must. More often than not, minority groups live in the most squalid conditions and undertake the most menial roles. Moreover, only 7% of individuals for minority groups are literate (admittedly over 50% of all Pakistanis are illiterate). Pakistan has signed up to the Human Rights Act and is a member of the UN, as such the blasphemy law which exists in their country is illegal and requires immediate reform. the BPCA believes the UN and the European Union should be involved in addressing change to a law that espouses first and second class citizenship, placing one race in a superior position.

What benefits would such engagement give to western nations you may ask - Wilson has an answer to this question:

"Better education would reduce the support for the Taliban, with the recent more direct attack by the western agencies against the Taliban, this could result in a more expedient and long term eradication of their militia group. It is proven that attacks to Christians and other minority faith groups are undertaken by the lower tier members of the Taliban, and other local fractious groups vying for power - almost always these are illiterate pawns, who have nothing to lose as they are in a social and economic quagmire. Better education and learning provides a more moderate social climate and more efficient economy. We believe this would reduce Asylum seekers based on religious persecution and reciprocally immigrants due to favourable conditions at home. In the long term this would mean more jobs for indigenous British people, less strain on our benefits system and a return of our service men, which reciprocally would lower the overall budget for our war on terror.

The BPCA will continue to fight for justice, peace and equality in Pakistan and would like anyone who supports the notion to sign the on-line petitions below:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Stop-the-persecution/

http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/Save-lives/

Wilson Chowdhry with Jean Lambert Green Party MEP for London and EU Delegate to for South Asia to the European Union

Video of the BPCA peace rally and protest against persecution in Pakistan

In Urdu and English so please continue to view the whole video.

Wilson meets Gordon Brown again!

Wilson just before meeting with the PM (check the guern)

PM Gordon Brown and Wilson

Wilson and Louise Casey Director General of the Crime and Justice Department
Prime minister Gordon Brown and winners of a Community Crime fighter Award

We have reported previously on Wilson's visit to both the Home Office and 10 Downing Street where he was presented with a certificate signed by the PM Gordon Brown, Home Secretary Alan Johnson, and Director General of the Crime and Justice Department Louise Casey. The 3 of them also arranged a splendid event at both the Home Office and 10 Downing Street and Wilson has stated that this was a very rewarding experience. He went on to say:

"It is nice to have my work acknowledged and I feel privileged to have been included at the event. It has inspired me to work even harder to achieve a better quality of life and security for the people of Redbridge."

Community Crime Fighters - Thank You!

I was recently invited to the Barking and Dagenham "Community Crimefighters" Thank you meeting. This is due to my work over both borough's, in my role as prospective candidacy for councillor to Chadwell, in the forthcoming local elections. Such a role obviously requires me to address cross border issues.

The meeting went well and I met with local Magistrates and the Barking and Dagenham Community Safety Leader, whilst also meeting with several other leading local figures for the borough. I will continue to espouse good relationships with groups from LBBD in my inclusive approach to tackling our concerns for Chadwell.

I must say, I was very impressed with the new Barking Learning Centre which is designed economically, environmentally and with appropriate application of ergonomic design. I recommend a visit it is truly spectacular and useful.

Redbridge College - Meeting with the Deputy Principal.

I attended a very honest and frank meeting with a Mr Snailham the Deputy Principal of Redbridge College on Tuesday 27th October 2009. At the meeting Mr Snailham advised me of the real details of what transpired during the recent incident at the college.

The incident occurred after a minor skirmish involving 3 or 4 male students in the college. Mobile phone calls were made and within minutes a large group of youths with a number of weapons including a blade arrived - ready to instigate violence. In the incident a college student was injured and 6 arrests were made by the Police of which 5 boys from the group are to be tried for various criminal offences.

The reason that so many students were evacuated from the college was not due to the knife incident. For an unknown reason, the fire alarm had inadvertently been triggered and to date the college cannot identify the reason for the alarm ringing. If I was to speculate, it would seem that it was intentionally triggered as a ruse to find the victim, or to cause confusion for a quick getaway. Whatever the purpose, it did make dealing with the incident significantly more difficult for the college. The staff and students acted calmly in order to return to normal tackling both issue with confidence and professionalism. The police have been very positive about the Colleges input.

The College has been very co-operative with the local Police and have already signed up to the Redbridge Weapons Protocol devised by the Local Police for local schools (since September 2008). They even made some generic amendments to the contract to incorporate colleges and other establishments joining the scheme. They have instigated previous knife arch audits without any finds and will continue their membership to the scheme. I should reiterate, the weapons brought to the college site, were carried by external youths.

The college has made it their focus to return to a normal state and have been liaising with residents, parents and pupils alike to reassure them of safety within the college. It seems their reassurance have worked as Pupils have returned. The partnership with the Local Police who increased their visibility and their deterrent affect accordingly - should be praised and all thanks to Sgt Lowrie and his team. The deputy Principal praised the police for their efforts:

"The police response was rapid and provided an effective deterrent to any repaet incident. It was good to see local police engaging with youth"

Redbridge College has previously held a Gun and Knife Crime event and hold them bi-annually with another event planned for the Spring term

I have been asked to source information on a potential community event held by the College on the local green and hope soon to be able to assist them towards an event next year. The intent is to give something back to the local community and to enable the college students to gain experience in putting an event on. I will keep you all informed on progress.


Thank you

Wilson

Great news another NHW!

At the recent Mayesford Avenue, Hickman Road and Reynolds Avenue NHW Meeting we had an enormous attendance of 7 local people. This is not bad for a start up groups and was the product of two letter drops on the road. Since then two other residents have emailed apologies and confirmed they will be at the next meeting – as I am sure will many others as time progresses.

A very good Coordinator and Deputy have been selected (the Coordinator is actually a Magistrate) and things look very promising for this group.

Sgt Lowrie from the Chadwell SNT arrived and was very productive providing several useful leaflets, free tamper proof screws- to prevent licence plate theft, energy saving bulbs and he provided window posters warning people that the police would be called to anyone trick or treating in the area.

After my introduction Sgt Lowrie advised us that there had been 3 burglaries, 1 cannabis detection and 2 vehicle thefts in the last quarter. He also informed us that Chadwell is one of the worst wards for burglary in the borough, although burglary is high throughout and across the country. He surmised that a potential consequence of the recession is this increase in burglary and clarified in response to a question, that burglars that have been caught or spotted are of a rich cultural diversity, vary in age and even a female has been caught. In short – you just don’t know what they look like!

Sgt Lowrie confirmed that times vary and that UPVC doors are being targeted by thieves. He provided an information leaflet on how to deter UPVC burglary. I have copies for any viewers that would like one and can email one across on request.

One resident asked if more vehicles could be used to patrol the streets looking out for burglaries. It transpired that the Borough has two additional burglary specific vehicles. These are to be shared throughout the Borough. However, a significant priority has been set for the patrolling of Chadwell due to high level of theft and burglaries.

Artifice burglary is being used which is a technical phrase for people that look professional (in suits or uniforms) in our without a snazzy car, undertaking burglary or casing a property.

Sgt Lowrie also explained that his team would be patrolling the ward during Halloween and that test purchases were being taken on Firework distributors – which provided no end of solace.

All who came felt they had learnt more about their roads and made new friends. A very positive future is in store for this group as every participant agreed to safety involved and offered differing involvement.

Concerns were raised regrading the increase in boy racers within the Halfords Car Park on the High Street. Sgt Lowrie informed visitors that this crime was on their schedule of work.

Having a Sergeant at a NHW meeting is a rare and wonderful thing and Sgt Lowrie expressed his confidence in the need for NHW's whilst confirming that although his team could not attend every meeting, they would try to be at as many as possible and would provide support and feedback to coordinators. There are few Sergeants like him!

The usual suspects!

Another stabbing in Chadwell Heath!

Stop the knives!

A knife crime incident occurred at Redbridge College (20th October 2009) around lunch time. As alarming as this it was not a fatal incident and both the College and the local crime prevention agencies, including the Police, are working hard to increase community confidence and remove the threat of reprisals. Today and tomorrow a full police presence will be present, as our extremely hard working Chadwell Safer Neighbourhoods Team, have rearranged their shifts to facilitate this. I have been advised that the college has been very professional and cooperative with the Police and that this incident has shocked them too. This is the first incident of its type on college grounds and the management are working hard towards a return to normality.

Only recently a school boy stabbing occurred between pupils of Chadwell Heath Foundation School. Arrests have been made for both incidents with 6 boys arrested yesterday near the college and the perpetrator of knife crime arrested in the School boy incident. Early reports suggest the perpetrator of the crime was not a college student. Crimes of this nature have a demoralising and intimidatory affect on local people causing much distress.

Somehow, we must get across a message of community cohesion and the futility of knife crime to this our young people. One way in which we will be engaging with young people is via the use of the Redbridge Youth Bus, which will be providing, counselling, sexual, health advice and a number of activities including a DJ workshop and gaming consoles in a stewarded atmosphere. The bus has been at Christie Gardens for the last two weeks, but will now be parking in Crucible Close every Thursday till the end of December. The times of the activities are from 18:00 - 21:00 and I would encourage people to send any young people they know to the bus - for what is one of the few youth engagement programmes in the Borough. I am working with the Police, Parks Police, Parks Management Team and the Detached Youth Worker's of Redbridge Youth service for a longer more productive scheme to be held during the same days and times next summer.

I will also be working towards the initiation of two new NHW' one in the Seven Kings roads adjoining crucible park and one at the roads from Little Heath, Chadwell Heath Lane, Tendring Way, Freshwell Avenue, Chafford Way and Rochford Avenue, in an attempt to create a better communication network between crime reduction agencies and local people. Perhaps this would be a good moment for parents to speak with their children, or to invite them to the watch meetings, to directly communicate with Police and ASBO officers with a view to uncovering the extent of youth knife crime. This could encourage good community citizenship at an early age and would reduce the propensity of crime. Letters will be sent to affected roads shortly.

Here are details of another peace project I am working towards - the Redbridge peace Monument.

Grove Farm planning application to be heard on 26th October- please register

Bad news I am afraid! Grove Farm Development rears its ugly head again!

Please click here to see latest letter from the planning department.

A new Planning application has been submitted by East Homes for Grove Farm. The project is still up to 6 storeys high and has been reduced only slightly to 104 dwellings. Some of the issues I personally have with this project include:

• The development is too large for an area deficient of school places and parking and will create excessive logistical burden.


• The proposed Right hand filter lane will increase an already congested area and introduce an element of danger to crossing children visiting Chadwell Heath Primary School.


• 104 dwellings and a 6 storey development will reduce sunlight to other neighbouring properties, induce antisocial behaviour due to density of population - peer and group culture. Moreover, it will only increase the existing over development of Chadwell ward and will not be in alignment with neighbouring properties, reducing the privacy of existing residents.


• The site is said to have stag beetles a protected species and a priority under the Redbridge Biodiversity plan. Has an investigation been undertaken by an appropriate body..?


• Parking allocation is at 90% but does not take into account that many homes will have more than 1 driver.


• I raised a suggestion at an Area 5 committee meeting during the formation of a pre-planning brief, that the properties should be limited to 3 storeys. This was agreed by all Councillors. How then, are 6 storeys now acceptable…?


• The 104 properties are of a variety of sizes ranging from 4 bed properties to 1 bed properties. The overall number of rooms for the site is over 300. Both the parking and local facilities cannot support a scheme of this size.


• What safety measures will be taken to prevent arson attacks and reduce bulky waste deposits to bin areas - a pervading social malaise affecting all large residential estates in Chadwell?
  
  A link to the Planning application where you can learn more can be found on my blog (do write comments on the blog as well as the Council website as I will use this as evidence) - following this link:
  
  http://chadwellgreen.blogspot.com/2009/09/diabolical-behaviour.html

Depravities of the human mind!

I have received reports from local residents that one man from the frequently reported group of homeless drunks often seen around the Green Lane, Gordon Road and Connaught Road area is now purportedly frequently sitting at the bus stop on Green Lane near the betting shop and ogling children coming from the local schools and their mothers. Mothers and children alike are finding the behaviour both offensive and rather frightening. I have reported the insidious activity to the Police and hope for a positive outcome in removing the individual. I will keep you informed of progress.

If anyone else has seen the activity and can identify the man please get in contact as I wish to build a portfolio of evidence for the Police - to empower them to be able to take appropriate action. My details are on the right hand side top of this blog. I have an image from a previous story on the blog that might help with an image of the regular group of drunks. Click here.

The police have responded and the most excellent Sgt Paul Keely of Mayfield Ward Safer Neighbourhood team has spoken to some of the victims and has stated:

-

"I have tasked my officer to complete daily patrols in the area of the betting shop and the off licence in Green Lane over the next three weeks."

-

Should you wish to contcat him directly please call 020 8721 2028.

Community Crime Fighters - the next step!

Wilson with Chief Inspector Peter Crowcroft of Chesire Constabulary

In September 2008 Jacqui Smith the former Home Secretary devised the "Community Crime Fighters" programme. This was following the report from Louise Casey , the Government Crime and Justice Advisor when commissioned to look at how crime could be better tackled in the country. Louise's advice was "Crime is tackled most effectively when local people work together with Police and other criminal justice agencies"

The Community Crime Fighters began in December 2008 and to date over 2000 people have been trained with proven results. The course provides opportunities in learning:

• What the Policing pledge mean locally.
• The tools and powers local authorities could and should be using to tackle antisocial behaviour and crime.
• The help provided to victims and witnesses of crime and antisocial behaviour.
• Ways to get the best out of local crime fighting agencies.

In a previous post I talked about a series of road shows, that included seminars from leading Police, ASBO and Home Office officials. I was invited by our local Police to attend the event and attained knowledge of how better to work in partnership with other agencies when tackling crime. I was then invited to attend a two day training course in Manchester which finished yesterday. The trainers provided information on the laws that we can use to benefit us when tackling local crime, they provided a more in depth understanding of local crime agencies, their roles and responsibilities and how our council fit into the overall crime prevention picture. The tools they have provided include a list of laws that we can use when tackling specific incidents and we went through a number of interactive awareness exercises. All in all it was an excellent event and very rewarding.

Of course we had fun too and the Home office covered our subsidence and travel expenses. Moreover they are looking to train 3000 people in total on their comprehensive two day course. There are still places left and the next central London -1 day seminar- road show, is scheduled for the 25th November 2009. If you would like to attend contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team - call 0800 197 2965 or view: http://www.communitycrimefighters.org.uk/ quote ref: ccf02

As you can see the entire group really enjoyed the course and we were really buoyed by the efforts the Home Office, Police and Local Council's are putting into what should become a really worthwhile scheme.

Hope not Hate!

Many of you will have seen the debate in the Ilford Recorder in which I wrote about the persecution that I and my family suffered in the 80's when racism was rather more widespread. This week a Mr Wood from South Park queried my write to suggest that the BNP was a party for hate. Yet here is a copy of an email I received from The Hope not Hate campaigners:

"Hi Wilson,

I just wanted to drop you a quick reminder about our HOPE not Hate events across London tomorrow. Following the conviction of Richard Barnbrook last week, hundreds upon hundreds of people donated money to the HOPE not Hate movement so that we can let the voters know the real truth about the BNP. I'm now writing to ask you to donate your time - so that we can get this message out. There are events across London tomorrow - we need to use this moment to stand up against the lies, fear and hate of the BNP. Please find your local event here.

We need to act - the BNP highest elected official in London, Barnbrook, made up the murder of two teenagers. He was prepared to lie about young people dying - insulting all the parents who have actually lost a child because of knife crime.
And why did he lie? To whip up hate in our communities and to get votes for the BNP.
We have a responsibility to let every Londoner know the depths the BNP are willing to plunge to spread fear and hate. We believe in hope, fairness and justice. And the differences between us and the BNP couldn't be clearer.

I'd like you to donate an hour or so of your time tomorrow.

Find details of your nearest event here.

Together we can distribute thousands of leaflets across the whole of London and make sure that everyone knows the truth."

Do please follow the links by clicking on underlined words and take part in the protest to make Britain a safer, and more integrated nation. The BNP has a woeful impression of what women are for, they are a party of hatred directed towards ethnic minorities, homosexuals and other groups. The hope not hate website is full of highlighted instances describing just some of their distasteful comments and actions.

Richmond Estate - Finally a response!

I have returned from a 2 day training course in Manchester - which also saw me lose the entirety of Tuesday. So please do not be perturbed by the recent deficiency of posts. I am pleased however, to see that RMG are now choosing to respond and include a response received from a lead officer within their organisation, after my recent relay of emails including listed defects (sic):


"Dear Mr Wilson,

Thank you for your email.

As the Block Buildings Insurance has just been paid there is currently insufficient funds to proceed with the works required to attend to the issues listed below.

We are actively pursuing non paying Residents and the Directors are aware of the situation.

Please be assured that we do take all complaints seriously but can only take action where the Management Companies funding will allow us. We have already spent well over £5000 on the removal of bulk refuse this year, which is out of our control, if we do not remove it, no one else will.

To keep the development up to scratch we would need to do bulk refuse removal every week and this is just not viable, we are going to implement into the new budget a monthly removal, we can not do more then that going forward.

I can not at this time issue instructions to contractors as we can not pay them. This is not mismanagement by RMG, this is down to individual leaseholders not being able to currently afford to pay there service charge, and so are going to court over the coming months.

I hope the above is of assistance to you."

I have, of course, requested a copy of the latest set of accounts for the estate and will keep you informed of any findings.

Fields Park yellow line

The dangerous bend on Fields Park Crescent is finally to obtain the yellow line promised. this will be advertised in the papers this month and should be implemented shortly after, subject to their being no obkections.

Here is an email received from a senior Highways officer:

"In relation to your email concerning the above, I can confirm that the formal order is to be advertised in October enabling the restriction to be introduced, providing no objections are received as to this proposal."

I hope this is good news...?

More Road works??!!

I write to remind your that road works at the end of the High Road leading to Cranbrook Road will continue until September. The works are their to create a new right hand bus lane to reduce the need to travel the Ilford Hill Loop -this is good news for Redbridge Carnival as it will be ready for use by us for our procession on the 6th September 2009.

There is also some gas works being undertaken along Cranbrook Road opposite the entrance to York Road. This work should be completed within a week. Do try and avoid this route to reduce travel delay.

Save Our Streets!

I was invited to the News of the World road show at which the London street crime was discussed and debated by leading Police, Doctors, victims and their families, MP's and the general public.

The event proved to be very polarised and people came with serious concerns, hoping that their input might effect some change to the diabolical nature of existing street culture and poor community quality of life.


TV Actress Linda Robson (formerly with Birds of a Feather) spoke openly about her son's traumatic experince, being the last person to cradle Ben Kinsella as he died. Linda has stated that if she is not booked, she would be willing to talk on the futility of knife crime at our Redbridge Carnival event on the 5th and 6th September 2009.
At the event I spoke about the Redbridge Peace Monument project I am championing, to commemorate the victims of violent crime in Redbridge while providing a poignant reminder of the consequences of knife and gun use. I also spoke to press officers afterwards and stated that I beleive that the MP's Victims and their families and leading police and doctors involved in the aftermath of such crime should be funded to speak to young children within our schools, as an early intervention measure. In tandem thay should also be encouraged to talk to the perpetrators of such crime, ian an effort to open their minds to the real hurt and pain their actions have caused. Having spoken to the 3 mothers who have lost teenagers to knife crime in Redbridge, I am well aware of the impact their words can have.

Mayfield School Multicultural Day

I was asked to speak about community cohesion and the impact Redbridge Carnival has on bringing communities together, at the wonderful Mayfield School Multicultural Day.

For your information Redbridge Carnival returns to Valentines Park on the 5th and 6th September from 12:00 - 20:00 both days and will be a free entry event.

Whilst there I met our Worshipful Mayor of Redbridge Councillor Chan, who was full of good humour and spoke about the Council's view of Community Cohesion.

The army and the Fire service provided demonstrations and fun events. I think I got a little carried away...!

I impressed the Army recruiting division on site as I am 34 and beat a 16 year old on an assault course for which he had previously undergone extensive training on. I was also told by a TA responsible for the workshop that my grenade lob was the lengthiest of any civilian he had encountered. I was best pleased!

Redbridge Neighbourhood Watch Association

The Redbridge Neighbourhood Watch Association is an overarching support, guidance and learning organisation for all Neighbourhood Watches in Redbridge. Neighbourhood Watches are not automatically members and must indicate that they would like to join (please contact me if you would like to join). The group has been stagnant for a while, however I have recently been made Chairman and in partnership with the core Area Coordinators including Alex Bailey, Isla Martin, Simon Hampshire, Tippi Marravala and Irene Thompson, things seem to be moving at an extremely fast pace. We are just about to launch a new website which will be viewable from http://www.rnwa.net/ in the next few weeks. In time we hope to include contact details and links to website for all NHW's whilst assisting them with developing individual websites. We also hope to arrange a network page for all watch Coordinators.

In conjunction with Lisa Cherry Borough Watch Manager Alex Bailey and I have produced some funding applications (see picture taken today) that if successful, may allow us to distribute crime prevention devices to NHW's in Redbridge - whilst also increasing the number of networking and training meetings for Watch leaders (Coordinators) in the Borough. This would be a big leap for our organisation and a mammoth one for watches in the Borough. We would also hope to distribute stationary to support new and established watches. Watch this space.......

Loxford Polyclinic

By now many of you will be aware of the existence of the Loxford Polyclinic which now provides a lot of the Minor Operations (non- elective), traditionally undertaken at our larger hospitals. This will include a phlebotomy service, ophthalmic service, severe dental service, Sexually transmitted infection service and much more. I will provide a fuller description in a future blog.

What many of you will perhaps not be aware of is that I have been involved with the Loxford Polyclinic Community Panel and we held our first post-initiation meeting, which was a resounding success. The PCT have been very honest and open with us and have informed us of some teething problems with installed software that caused delays over the weekend and Monday morning, however, this glitch has now been rectified and a long term solution preventing a recurrence is being developed.

The new facilities are excellent and can actually be used by all residents of the borough -rather than going to the larger hospitals. An existing target stipulates that any person in the borough should have access to an appointment within 24 hours. These would have to arranged via your own GP' Clinics.

The clinic had a number of delays in the Construction phase that resulted in a 2 month extension to the initial opening date. However, It now looks a far sight better than when it was in its construction phase and is very state of art!

The next Polyclinic - within a wider Polyclinic system that will eventually serve the borough - is to be located on the site of King George Hospital!

The PCT will be placing a picture of all the Polyclinic Community Panel in the foyer of the new Loxford Polyclinic to thank the panel for its hard work and commitment. So you may be seeing my mugshot around for some time yet!

Armed Forces Day 2009

Here I am pictured with Captain Baggs of the Army Cadets on Armed Forces day in Valentines Park. They were a little disappointed with this years turnout, however I will be sharing ideas on marketing with them for next year.

The event was really fun and I got to use an unloaded gun and learn how to load it. I pictured some of the incumbent councillors to my fore during this demonstration.

Anne Chambers head of the Local St Johns Ambulance informed me of a recruitment drive for the local area. She was proud of her cadets attending on the day. Learn more here.

Juliet Talks at Redbridge College!

Juliet Chowdhry one of our long standing activists for Chadwell spoke recently at Redbridge College to ESOL students as part of a motivational speaker process. Juliet willingly gave of her time to facilitate this process - wishing to inspire others to follow in her steps to becoming a business woman. Why not read more from the Redbridge College website. We have written about this and other College functions on our blog read here.

Urination in South Park - A solution has been found!

It is a shame that peoples enjoyment of South Park and resident quality of life is being eroded by the acts of a few mindless and rather disgusting individuals - who choose to urinate in bushes near South Park Drive.

It is well known that South Parks toilets have been improved and re-opened and they have won a few Borough-wide cleanliness awards. Yet a few persistent joggers refuse to recognise the health and safety implications of urinating in bushes that are only yards from the toilets? Surely if exercising, a slightly longer jog would burn more calories? The perpetrators may not be aware that is illegal to urinate in public places and that if they are seen by children and adults more severe breaches of law are taking place.

I include a very positive response from the Parks Manager to my request to lower the height of the bushes at which the activity is most prominent :

"In response to the urinating issue, the area described has already been earmarked to have the shrubs lifted, which in essence have the same effect. The term contractor will roll this out in the forth-coming weeks. Obviously the other enforcement issues are for the SNT or Parks police to respond."

Redbridge Carnival Queen Selection Dance

The new Redbridge Carnival Queen selection will be occuring on the 26th July 2009 from 18:00 - 21:45 at Redbridge College. The event will be an exciting one with a performance from Alexandra School of Performing Arts who will provide a jazz, tap and Ballet routine fused with pantomime. We will also have performances form Elektra who will provide fusion belly dancing performances to wow the crowds. Tickets are limited to the first 100 people and will be sold at the price of £4.00 for adults and £2.00 for children. Refreshments will be sold on the day and we will also have a special raffle that includes hampers, Blue tooth device sand much more.
If you would like to join us, strut your stuff or just boogie - please call 020m 8514 0861 24 hours a day or Rajeshri Chouhan on 07941 083 716.

South Park Crises!

Residents surrounding south park are complaining about the Drug Dealing occurring in the park around 2am when there is purported drug dealing between young adults who climb into the park.

There are also a large number of joggers who are urinating in the bushes across the road from no.37. I have asked the Trees Section and Parks Manager to cut these bushes to a lower level to reduce the occurrence.

South Park School is leaving its lights on during the evening and residents are concerned about environmental waste. I have asked the School for a response

Residents are concerned about the lack of policing of the roads around the school where parents are parking in front of drives and on the Zig Zags. I know there was a policing priority to reduce this issue and a programme of scheduled visits. I have asked the Local sergenat to confirm this is on their list of priorities.

The gates at the corner of the park a little further from the school are being left open all night? I have asked the Parks Manager to confirm why this is occuring.

Leon Greenman Memorial

A memorial to Leon Greenman is to be installed at the Holocaust Memorial Gardens in Valentines Park. Leon was a leading community figure promoting peace and unity to young people in the borough by speaking at various schools - as he shared his experiences of the tragedy of having to survive a holocaust. A Redbridge Hero we should all remember who suffered antagonism from fascists after the war and yet unstinting in his resolve to promote community cohesion.

As chairman of Redbridge Carnival Association I was pleased to be involved in a contribution towards this worthwhile scheme. I look forward to its eventual installation.

Learn more about Leon Greenman here.

Back From 10 Downing Street

I just returned from 10 Downing Street after meeting with the Prime Minister Gordon Brown. The event was a chance for small/medium sized businesses to be acknowledged and recognised for the impact they have on our country. PM Gordon Brown spoke eloquently about the support he intends to give to small /medium sizedbusinesses (SME) and the need to work together to improve our ailing economy. We were also taken on a tour of the actual cabinet room in which this Nation's decisions have been made since the days of Warpole. A ceremonial sword provided by the Saudis to John Major was the only highlight in this rather austere room. I spoke with Lord Peter Mandellson about the malfunctioning of the "Access to Work Scheme" but did not get much more of an opportunity to speak about other real issues as The PM left quite hurriedly after the event which led to an en mass and rather intense business networking session.

It's a shame really as I was prepared with a number of issue and don't feel I really had an opportunity to address pertinent needs for our community or my business sector. The government has lost an opportunity for consultation and absorption of real issues facing businesses within the SME category.

It was a privilege to enter into one of history most recognised places and I am looking forward to the future events of a similar nature.

Community Crime Fighters

Justice Seen - Justice Done. This is the new motto being driven forward by a new scheme championed by the "Ministry of Justice" . In a number of training sessions led by senior Police Officers, ASBO Officers and CPS - active community members learnt about the new policing pledge its contents, purpose and formation process. We also learnt how best to tackle antisocial behaviour and how to provide support to witnesses and link into the wider network of witness support. The aim of this event held on Friday 19th June 2009 and future training courses is to equip local community activists into becoming more knowledgeable, competent and confident when undertaking any role involving crime reduction and prevention. It was also a chance for the Justice system to recognise the commitment of members of local communities. I was invited to attend by two local sergeants as was Isla Martin from the Green Party, a reflection of our work with the Redbridge Neighbourhood Watch Association (RNWA -an overarching advice and guidance body set up to support local Neighbourhood Watches) and our own Local Watches. We both have achieved much through these watches resulting in this invite to the holistic London-wide meeting for only a selected 240 individuals. Our completion of the Course has resulted in our membership with the Community Crime Fighters Club which allows us access to a variety of training, best practice sharing and advice opportunities. We will be attending more training sessions and with other members of the RNWA who attended the course we shall cascade this information to other watches across Redbridge by designing our own training package. Please contact Isla or myself should you require further information.

Kinked George Protest advance warning!

I joined a few residents in a photoshoot today, organised to promote our forthcoming protest against the recent decision by King George Hospital, who now charge employees for the privilege to park on their premises. This is an income driver targeting poor nursing staff who quite frankly provide local residents with a much needed service for a pittance. The resulting on street parking has caused much community friction and parking burden.

Support our protest by attending between 12:00 - 13:00 on Saturday 27th June 2009.

Chadwell Heath Station Upgrade

In the picture you will see Syed Siyani of One railway with Councillor Balvinder Saund and I, in a meeting I arranged to tackle the previously dilapidated state of Chadwell Heath Station. More details can be viewed on the former Labour Chadwell Blog. Further to the recent increased maintenance of the station that I was particularly focused on implementing - I have further good news! The station will soon have a major redevelopment including an increase to 12 platforms as part of the Crossrail project. This will include CCTV and washrooms plus much more. I will give more details in my next post on the subject after I speak to TFL.

Redbridge Peace Monument

Many residents may not be aware of this, however, since
last year I have been working on a project to raise funds for a Peace monument near Ilford Town centre. The monument (if we are successful) will be installed at the Winston Way Roundabout at the location where teenager Kashif Mahmood was killed by another teenager in a violent act that shocked the nation. We hope the monument will provide solace to the Family of Kashif Mahmood and other victims of violent crime within Redbridge. It will also provide Redbridge South an area deficinet of any public art with a truly remarkable art feature. We also intend to organise an art competition that will result in message and art work of peace being mosaically inserted into the floor aroun the base of the art feature. In the picture I am joined by Parvin Mahmood (mother of Kashif Mahmood and Mary Foley the mother of Charlotte Polious another teenager tragically stabbed to death by another teenager near Ilford Lane. We have thus far raised close to £3000, however the toatal cost of the project is in the region of £10,000. I will keep you up to date with progress, however if you would like to learn more or would like to donate click here.

Click to enlarge

Whodunnit!

Isla Martin our new Green Activist is pictured next to some rubbish dumped on the streets. This was found by her, this afternoon, whilst walking along Shepherds Close near the junction of Havering Gardens. Rubbish needs to be put out in Shepherds Close on Fridays and this particular example of dumping is rather disturbing, as it is not in front of any home. The mess has been reported to the Environmental team, however, if you do see any persons undertaking such activity please remember identity details - as enforcement action can be taken.

Band Aid 2

I posted alarming concerns about the increase of Postman strewn rubber bands in Chadwell/Chadwell Heath in a post back in March. Since then the problem seems to have increased. Today whilst delivering letters along Glendale Avenue (off Grove Road) a resident asked me if I could work on resolving the issue. I informed him that I have approached Royal Mail and they are yet to respond....however, in April the General Cleansing Team had promised to write to them and copy me into he response. I took a picture of the fore of 12 Glendale Avenue and you can see the vast number of the bands littered on the streets. This road is particularly covered in the offending items and I will challenge the General Cleansing to visit the location with me on Tuesday, so that we can all agree on an action plan going forward.

Arson spree

I reported a number of fires to bin areas, within residential estates near Chadwell Heath Foundation School and forgot to mention the applaing burning down of a resident fence, which also engulfed a garden tree. This resident lives in quarles Park Road estate, which backs on to Crucible Park. I was so incensed with the victims story that I asked him to inform the local papers which resulted in an article and a promise for increased patrols from the police in the area. I would add that if any local resident has a description of any miscreant from the school that might be responsible for any crime in your area the school does maintain a rogues gallery picture selection that could help to determine culprits. You will need to get in touch with the school to view the pictures.

Click to enlarge